Hubnur: It’s why you become a footballer

Benjamin Hubner is looking forward to Champions League football next season following an exceptional debut campaign with TSG 1899 Hoffenheim.

Having joined the Bundesliga side from Ingolstadt at the start of the season, the 27-year-old played his part as Hoffenheim finished in fourth to secure their place in the group stage play-off round of the elite European competition.

He helped the club to their most successful ever season following a relegation-threatened campaign last time around, and Hübner acknowledged that the club had made great strides under manager Julian Nagelsmann.

He told the Bundesliga's official website: "Julian is a real expert with a very clear idea about football. But that's nothing new.

"He's also got a very good relationship with the squad, and with every single player in the team. He manages to keep players motivated even when they haven't played as much. That's a big advantage."

Hoffenheim claimed the league's second best defensive record, with Hübner giving credit to his teammates: "We're all very happy about that. The fact we have one of the best defences in the league isn't only down to the backline, though; it's a credit to the whole team."

And on his European adventure, he added: "Hübner: I'm simply just going to enjoy it. It's why you become a footballer. You want to test yourself against the best and I believe our team can do that. We're all really looking forward to those special midweek games."